Japan Through the Looking Glass

Takes us on an exploration into the different aspects of Japanese society: from public to intimate. This title uncovers the multi-faceted nature of the country and people who are even more extraordinary than they seem. It includes religion, ritual, martial arts, manners, eating, drinking, hot baths, geishas, family, home, and singing.A JOURNEY OF DISCOVERY THROUGH JAPAN'S MULTI-FACETED CUSTOMS AND CULTURE 'An excellent book for anyone with an interest in Japanese culture' Sunday Telegraph 'Takes in everything from the mythical roots of sumo to the ubiquity of Shinto shrines' The Times Alan Macfarlane first encountered Japan full of certainty, confidence and unexamined assumptions. He soon found his preconceptions challenged on every front - as generations of visiting travellers have found themselves, too. In this fascinating and endlessly surprising book, Macfarlane takes us on an exploration of every aspect of Japanese society, from the most public spaces to the most intimate realms, uncovering the great depths and multi-faceted nature of the country and its people. Clear-sighted yet affectionate, Macfarlane shows us Japan as it has never been seen before and, in the process, helps us to see our own world anew.